ALCHEMY Synonyms: 61 Similar and Opposite Words

alchemy

noun

Definition of alchemy

as in occultism

the power to control natural forces through supernatural means … an alchemy that changed metals rarer than gold into elements more baneful than lead.—James Gleick

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science

as in magic

the power to do something impressive in a way that seems mysterious or supernatural They marveled at the digital alchemy that turns lines of computer code into a beautiful user interface.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of alchemy Here, too, there were echoes of Keegan’s blissful early days, when queues snaked outside the stadium hours before kick-off and every victory felt like alchemy. — George Caulkin, New York Times, 30 July 2026 Since his debut album Pony was released in 2019, Peck has always trafficked in a perfect alchemy of mystery and intimacy. — Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 24 July 2026 Jack introduces Poppy to the alchemy of turning ingredients into a dish, and as her love for cooking and confidence in the kitchen grows, so do her feelings for Jack. — Grace Reilly, PEOPLE, 20 July 2026 Daoist ideas of alchemy play an important role in this relationship. — Michael Naparstek, The Conversation, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for alchemy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for alchemy

Noun

In one example, some teachers are let into the fictional realm of Agartha, which is a key setting in neo-Nazi occultism where everyone is white and blond.

— Owen Carry, Wired News, 11 Mar. 2026
The transformation of Tarocchi into a divinatory tool began in the late 18th century, driven by the rise of occultism in France.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 26 Feb. 2026

Definition of occultism

Noun

The British horror film stars Oscar-winner Vanessa Redgrave and Oliver Reed, telling the story of Urbain Grandier, a 17th-century priest who was accused of witchcraft.

— Mya Copeland, Variety, 13 Aug. 2026
Think earthy, free-spirited garb, Bohemian crafts and clothing, and the visual symbols of Wicca and other witchcraft traditions.

— Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Aug. 2026

Definition of witchcraft

Noun

By some architectural wizardry of concrete and glass the pictures inside stand to attention, as if they, too, are suspended in time and space—a collection that faces in one direction, in orderly fashion, like the Terracotta Army.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 July 2026
Anyway, Will Venable has my imaginary vote, though Mike Vasil's wizardry might be the bigger reason why the White Sox are rolling.

— Andy McCullough, New York Times, 17 July 2026

Definition of wizardry

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alcohol

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“Alchemy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/alchemy. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of alchemy

noun

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